cycle without filter ?

[emmaandpaul]

hi, getting a bigger tank soon 2ft one , got no mech filter though and im wondering if i can get a headstart with the bio filter by putting in gravel from other tank and stress zyme obviously de metalised water and an airstone to create movement ?

 

[smithrc]

id advise addign the filter as early as possible.. whoever if your just looking for the 'head start' that you refered to then it should be ok... it will be a lot slower to cycle though. and you will need the filter to be in ther an established in order to support fish.

 

[Inchworm]

Hi emmaandpaul

I don't think it would hurt to get started, especially since you have an airstone to help get the water circulating and picking up oxygen, which the bacteria will need.

If it will be a while before you get the filter of your choice, why not start out with an inexpensive box filter filled with some filter floss, which can replace the airstone. That way you will have more places for the newly developing bacteria to cling to. Then you can leave it in the tank while your final filter is becoming colonized, or if you choose an AquaClear, or another filter that has room in the chamber, you could transfer the filter floss right into it for a very rapid start when you get it.